Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder with many symptoms, but it is mostly defined by widespread musculoskeletal pain that has lasted for over three months. It is thought of as a modern ‘disorder’, but there is evidence from 1592 describing the condition.
Fibromyalgia is complex and can be challenging to diagnose. It has been reported that 1 in 20 people globally suffer from fibromyalgia. However, it can take some people years to get medical confirmation.
One aspect of the diagnosis was centred around how many tender points the person had on their body. Doctors pressed firmly on 18 specific points on the body, and if the person had pain in at least 4 or 5 areas, they would meet one criterion for fibromyalgia. The tender points diagnosis of fibromyalgia was first described in the early 1800s when the condition was known as “fibrositis,” meaning spontaneous pain.
As with many chronic pain disorders, there are often issues with the best way to treat people with fibromyalgia.
Since the 1980s, people have most often been prescribed antidepressants, leading to the assumption that the pain was more in the person’s head than a physical symptom. Advancements in research have now helped to change this belief. However, antidepressants have been shown to help with pain and also support sleep for those suffering.
- Inflammation of the fascia: some research has suggested that the widespread pain of fibromyalgia may be inflammation of the connective tissue called fascia which is found throughout the whole body.
- Extra nerves on blood vessels: a study shows fibromyalgia patients may have extra temperature and pain-sensing nerves in the circulatory system.
- Damaged nerves: emerging research is showing that they may suffer from damaged specialised nerves causing pain.
- Immune system issues: some research shows that people with fibromyalgia may have impaired immune systems that cause chronic activation - similar to autoimmune conditions.
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What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?
There are over 20 symptoms of fibromyalgia, but the main symptom reported is widespread musculoskeletal pain, which affects all aspects of a person’s life. Other common symptoms are fatigue, poor quality and disturbed sleep, problems with concentration, mood and digestion issues.
Women are twice as likely to have fibromyalgia than men, and it occurs more often in middle age.
Different natural treatments for fibromyalgia
Management for fibromyalgia typically involves a multidisciplinary approach which can incorporate medication, natural supplements, lifestyle interventions, physical therapy, and psychological support.
Some of the natural treatments for fibromyalgia include changes to diet and lifestyle as well as incorporating certain plants like turmeric that are well documented for their anti-inflammatory properties.
1. Diet
One promising area is making small changes to your diet by focusing on foods that contain anti-inflammatory properties.
Anti-inflammatory foods don’t have to be the latest fad superfood, it can be as simple as adding in more fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and good sources of proteins. Foods that are high in antioxidants are often bright in colour, so think of things like capsicums, berries, fresh turmeric or ginger.
Increasing your fish consumption can also help as it is a good source of omega-3s. Omega-3 fatty acids are often recommended for pain and inflammation. In our modern diet, we eat more omega 6-rich foods than omega-3, so supplementing with a good quality fish or algae oil (if vegan) has been found to show potential in reducing pain and inflammation associated with fibromyalgia.
2. Movement
Physical activity is another crucial aspect of natural health support for fibromyalgia management. While exercise might be the last thing people in chronic pain want to do, the act of gentle activities such as walking, yoga, and swimming can help to improve flexibility, circulation, strength, and overall mood.
Regular exercise can also help support better sleep quality and help to reduce fatigue - which are both common challenges faced by individuals with fibromyalgia.
Bidonde et al. (2014) have demonstrated the benefits of tailored exercise programs in reducing pain and improving the quality of life in fibromyalgia patients.
3. Mindfulness
Mindfulness-based practices such as meditation and deep breathing exercises can help to support stress management for everyone - but in particular those with fibromyalgia.
Using regular meditation or breathing activities can help with coping with both physical and emotional stress which can reduce the impact on fibromyalgia symptoms.
This literature review supports the efficacy of mindfulness interventions in managing pain and psychological distress associated with fibromyalgia. However, it can depend on the severity of the condition.
4. Turmeric
Well known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric has also been studied for its potential benefits in fibromyalgia management. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
A study by Delecroix et al. (2017) showed that turmeric supplementation reduced muscle soreness and improved recovery following intense exercise. These findings suggest its potential relevance in supporting fibromyalgia-related pain. We use turmeric in our Anti-Flam.
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5. Ginger
Ginger is another well-known anti-inflammatory herb that is being studied for its role in pain management. In a randomised controlled trial, Terry et al. (2011) found that ginger supplementation can support reduced muscle pain in individuals with fibromyalgia, highlighting its potential as a natural remedy for symptomatic relief.
6. St. John's wort
Traditionally used to treat depression and nerve-related pain, a systematic review of St. John's wort was undertaken to see if it could help with fibromyalgia symptoms. This review suggested that St. John's wort may be beneficial in improving pain, sleep quality, and overall well-being in fibromyalgia patients, although further research is warranted to confirm these findings. We use St. John's wort in our Mood Boost.
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7. Valerian
Valerian root is mostly used for its sedative and muscle-relaxant abilities, so it is often used to support sleep disturbances and muscle stiffness that can be associated with fibromyalgia.
A meta-analysis by Fernández-San-Martín et al. (2010) indicated that valerian supplementation improved sleep quality making it helpful for sleep disturbances, which can be commonly suffered by fibromyalgia patients.
Other herbal options to support sleep are chamomile, passionflower and lemon balm. People with fibromyalgia often struggle with dysregulated nervous systems so stress, worry and poor sleep effects them much more quickly than the average person, so daily nervine support is advised.
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8. Bitter plants
